Jelgava Municipality Chairman Visits “EcoLead” Lead Recycling Plant

On Monday, July 21, the Chairman of Jelgava Municipality Council, Ingus Zālītis, visited the lead battery recycling facility of SIA “EcoLead” in Kalnciems. The purpose of the visit was to gain firsthand insight into the operations of Latvia’s only lead recycling plant and to discuss key issues related to regional business development.

During the meeting, the parties discussed EcoLead’s future growth plans, labor market challenges, and the potential improvement of access roads to ensure easier commuting for employees. The conversation also touched upon the municipality’s role in supporting local entrepreneurship.

“I’m pleased to see businesses in our region with a clear vision for development and a commitment to producing higher value-added products. Jelgava Municipality needs strong manufacturing companies that create jobs, pay taxes, and contribute to Latvia’s overall economic growth. The municipal coalition is open to business ideas and ready to support them within the scope of our capabilities,” emphasized Ingus Zālītis, Chairman of Jelgava Municipality Council, following the visit.

“We were honored to welcome Mr. Zālītis to our facility and present an overview of our operations. Visits like this are a valuable step toward building closer dialogue between business and local government, as sustainable regional development is only possible through mutual cooperation. I am glad we share a common view with the municipality’s leadership – sustainable growth in Latvia is only possible by supporting business development. Anti-industrial sentiment must not become the norm,” said Kaspars Fogelmanis, CEO of SIA EcoLead.

SIA “EcoLead” launched operations in April 2023 and currently employs 43 staff members, 40% of whom are residents of Kalnciems. The company processes all collected and end-of-life lead-acid batteries in Latvia, providing a full-cycle recycling solution – from battery collection and sorting to lead processing, ingot production, and export. All recycling and manufacturing activities are carried out in full compliance with Latvian legislation and EU environmental standards.